This one was a little different.

I was there assisting Emily Isakson as a photo assistant — but in the in-between moments, I had my camcorder with me. No pressure, no expectations. Just documenting what the day felt like as it unfolded.

Allie and Derek’s wedding took place at Le Venere on a cold January day, which honestly made everything feel a little more intentional. Having the getting ready, ceremony and reception all in one place made things easy. No rushing between locations, no fighting the weather. Just space to settle in and enjoy it.

The bridal suite stood out right away. Big, open, full of light. Plenty of room for hair, makeup and people moving around without it ever feeling crowded. As someone working alongside a full team, that kind of space makes a difference — you can stay present without feeling like you’re in the way.

Downstairs, the reception had a completely different feel. Smaller, warmer, more intimate. The kind of room that naturally pulls people together.

Later in the night, we stepped out onto the rooftop. Snow falling, city lights, just enough chaos from the cold to keep things fun. Those are always the moments that feel the most alive — quick, unplanned, a little unpredictable.

And then the dance floor.

Bluewater Kings Band kept the energy high all night, but the standout moment was when they played a Creed song just for Derek. At one point, the crowd lifted Allie and Derek up and passed them over the dance floor — completely unhinged in the best way.

After the reception, the night didn’t end — it just moved down the street to The Bulldog Lowertown. Drinks, darts and zero interest in calling it a night. At one point, they ended up behind the bar, pouring their own beers for a final toast.

That’s the kind of thing you can’t plan.

And honestly, that’s why I keep bringing the camcorder.